[A woman performs a traditional Philippine dance known as A La Luneta.]
THE flu bug and the recession may put a damper on your travel plans.
But there are affordable holiday destinations that still give you a slice of paradise.
Try the Philippines. It is just two to three hours' flight away. Once there, you can find miles of tropical beaches at places like Boracay or Palawan.
Nature lovers will enjoy the lush green landscapes with exotic wildlife in Bohol.
Or, for those looking for a holiday away from the sun and sea, Philippines? Capital city Manila, for example, offers ample shopping and a vibrant nightlife for those looking to let their hair down.
If you're unsure about on which type of holiday to take next, the Philippine Country Fairmay help you decide.
From today till Sunday, the Philippine Country Fair held at Plaza Singapura will give you a chance to have a taste of what you'll get to see in Philippines.
Themed The Philippines: Live Your Dreams, the fair will showcase travel and tourism opportunities in the country, ranging from food to art and culture.
Try the country's cuisine as Filipino gourmet chef Rolando Laudico whips up somedishes at the fair.
As part of the cultural showcase, there?ll be live demonstrations of traditional arts such as textile weaving and painting, Filipino martial arts arnis demano, as well as an exhibition of traditional handicraft.
Visitors will also be entertained bysome of the best Filipino talent.
Pamela Wildheart, a former Singapore radio deejay, together with Christine Loria - both ofwhomare Filipinos based here - will launch their albums at the fair.
The best part of the fair are the lucky draws that will be held throughout the three-day event.
The grand prize (to be drawn on Sunday) is a full tour package that includes a round-trip ticket on Philippine Airlines and hotel accommodation in Manila.
Other prizes include roundtrip tickets to Manila on Jetstar and Cebu Pacific.
Those who don't win any prizes can still get great deals on airfares and tour packages to Manila on special offer.
PHILIPPINE COUNTRY FAIR
WHEN: Till Sunday, 10am to 9pm WHERE: Plaza Singapura, open plaza ADMISSION: Free
